Now for what we've all been waiting for...the treatment plan! Craig and I showed up to Dr. Jones' office today and she quickly revealed the plan for treatment. Craig has pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors and it is most likely islet cell tumors which is rather rare. Dr. Jones has seen about 10 cases of this type of cancer. Most pancreatic cancers are adenopancreatic.
The liver is extensively involved or a "significant tumor burden". For now, he will go back on the octreotide injections 3X day to hopefully slow the growth of the tumors in the liver. If he tolerates that ok, then he'll receive monthly injections. The tumor on the pancreas is where the cancer originated but the concern now is more with the liver and the need for the liver to function properly. Amazingly his liver is working fine right now so we're thankful for that. The doctor also plans to have Craig see an interventional radiologist, Dr. Carlisle, who will perform liver-directed therapy or chemoembolization to hit the liver with chemo directly through the hepatic artery. This is a procedure that will occur about once a month with an overnight stay in the hospital. They will infuse the liver with chemo to hopefully stunt the growth of the cancer in the liver. Dr. Jones says this is a slow growing cancer and we will do whatever we can do to slow it down even more. We are finding that dealing with this cancer is an ever changing thing and not for the impatient (that would be me!). We think we have a solid idea of what cancer Craig has but the treatment is far from an exact science. It may change in a week or a month. The treatment all depends on how Craig tolerates it and how the cancer reacts to it.
We are thankful for all the amazing medical inventions that exist to aid us with his treatment. Thanks to my dear brother, Craig Harmon, for his love and concern throughout this process. His knowledge and willingness to consult with Dr. Jones on Craig's treatment is calming and helpful to us to know we are receiving the best care available. Thanks to everyone else for prayers, thoughts and positive energy you are sending our way.
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Wow-so, there we have it! I am so glad you have Craig H. to help as well! I bet Craig is looking forward to having more shots! How great is it that his liver is doing well! I am telling you, like Dad, you will be the miracle man! Thanks Suzy for taking the time to write this all up--that too is draining! I have had butterflies in my stomach all day wondering. Let the party begin!
ReplyDeleteLove you tons! Lisa
Even though I've heard this directly from Suzy tonight, it was even more clear to read it written out. Thank you, Suzy, for keeping us all informed. I'm sure it is a real challenge to try to think of all of us, but we love you for it. Craig is so lucky to have such a beautiful, devoted and loving caretaker. And he is lucky to have a strong liver that is doing so well. All around, the prayers and good vibes are working! Love you, Kathy
ReplyDeleteThanks again for keeping us all updated through the blog. Hugs, prayers, & love to all of you!
ReplyDeleteThanks Suzy for keeping us posted. Please know you are ALL in our thoughts and prayers! xoxo
ReplyDeleteYou are a great blogger even though Maddie thinks otherwise. As usual, thanks for the update. I saw Craig this morning and his face is not very red and he looked good. As usual, his spirits were up. Keep positive and hopeful. You are in our prayer. Tessa
ReplyDeleteWe were elated to hear about the slow growth and the direct hit to the liver cancer through chemo. Isn't it amazing all they can do and will do for Craig?! We are hopeful, grateful and filled with an optimism for all of you to not just survive but thrive through this time of uncertainty. When the going gets tough, the tough get going! You can do hard things! I LOVE THIS BLOG - THANKS FOR KEEPING IT UP!
ReplyDeleteLove and Well Wishes, The Hatch Batch
My prayers are with you, Doutre family!
ReplyDeleteLove to you all,
Heather Hatch